Meet our future deacons

David Urbanowski

Name: David Urbanowski
Age: 66
Wife: Christine Urbanowski
Home Parish: St. Martin of Tours, Martinsville
Occupation: Retired airline pilot and military officer
 

Who are the important role models in your life of faith?

My parents were my first role models. An example of their quiet caring for others was caring for more than 300 newborns as foster parents in the course of 20 years. Their steady habits of giving back gave me an example of compassion and service to others, especially the vulnerable. During my military service, I knew several Catholic chaplains that offered friendship and guidance. One of these priests became a lifelong friend. I learned from him that priests are human and have needs of friendship. I’ve sought to offer friendship and care to my pastors in thanks to God for such a gift. Finally, I will never forget the image of St. Pope John Paul II demonstrating perseverance and devotion in the face of pain while leaning on his crosier.
 

What are your favorite Scripture verses, saints, prayers and devotions?

I am drawn to the many Marian apparitions and Mother Mary’s messages drawing us to Jesus. The daily saints highlighted in Magnificat are my favorite daily readings. The rosary, chaplet of Divine Mercy and the Liturgy of the Hours are my favorite prayers and devotions.
 

Deacons often minister, formally or informally, to others in the workplace. How have you experienced that already and what do you anticipate doing in the future?

One’s character is always on display. People learn about who we really are by watching how we make decisions, react under pressure and even when we quietly listen to them without judgment. I think how I behave and how I relate to others will be even more important in a pastoral situation.
 

Why do you feel that God is calling you to become a deacon?

I think my call has been an equal mix of a few factors. One is my admiration and respect for clergy, friends and pastors and a desire to be of service to them. Two, parishioners and friends have suggested that I might be a good deacon. Finally, I have a desire to give back to God, the Church and community.
 

How will being ordained a deacon have an impact on your life and family?

I do hope that who I am and what I do will inspire a positive attraction to God for both immediate and extended family. Personally, I expect spiritual growth and fulfillment in working with people in need.
 

How do you hope to serve through your life and ministry as a deacon?

I hope that I can serve those in need as effectively as my parents were with foster children. I also hope to offer the kind of support to my priests and fellow deacons that my military chaplain friend gave me. †